Bixby Fire Station One Discusses First Day With New Ambulance

The start of a new year means the Bixby Fire Department is now running its own ambulance service.

The department put their new ambulances into service on New Year's Day.

Fire Station One responded to three calls before 6 p.m., all non-critical medical emergencies.

Gray Nelson went on those runs, he's new to the Bixby Fire Department and says he's feeling right at home working the department's new ambulance.

"So far, so great we've only ran a few calls but we're looking forward to staying busy," said Nelson.

The Bixby Fire Department is separating from EMSA, which means firefighters will treat and transfer patients.

"I think just us collectively as a whole unit we're going to be able to provide that excellent care for our patients," Nelson said.

Gray Nelson has been on the job for four months. Combining fire and EMS felt like the right move for him.

"This almost felt like going back to my roots as the fire service is all new to me but it's exciting to blend the two," Nelson said.

Gray switched professions so he could get experience fighting fires and running on EMS calls.

"Even when I was a kid I wanted to be a firefighter, I know that's pretty cliché but when I heard Bixby was hiring I was quick to put an application in," said Gray.

Gray says working with his team from response to transfer is the right change for Bixby.

"Getting to run with your own teammates and coworkers, it makes things so much smoother, you know? How they work, you know, how they process things and we can all work together for a common goal of that patient," said Gray.

The ambulances will also have firefighters' gear and equipment inside in case there is an emergency on the way back from helping patients or if during a fire the department needs more help.